Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive April 2008


Page 9 of 22

Fuzzy logic water quality

Researchers develop data mining approach using Fuzzy Inference System to analyze river water quality, revealing high pollution levels despite individual parameter analysis. The method combines disparate parameters for a broader understanding of overall quality, potentially improving the lives of people relying on freshwater sources.

UC San Diego study finds mice can sense oxygen through skin

Biologists at UC San Diego have found that mouse skin responds to low oxygen levels by regulating EPO production, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell creation. This discovery could revolutionize treatment for anemia and improve endurance athlete performance.

Rutgers-led team pursues innovative healing for war wounded

A Rutgers-led team has been awarded $42.5 million to create an Institute of Regenerative Medicine, focusing on regenerative medicine and biomaterials science to treat severe blast trauma. The institute aims to develop new therapies for the repair of battlefield injuries and serve civilian trauma patients.

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

What happens when you pop a quantum balloon?

Theoretical physicists discovered that measuring quantum particles causes interference, leading to a 'relaxed' state analogous to classical chaotic scattering. This finding has implications for quantum computing and information theory.

Scientists discover new arenavirus associated with hemorrhagic fever

A newly discovered arenavirus, Chapare virus, has been identified in a fatal hemorrhagic fever case in rural Bolivia. The virus produces clinical hemorrhagic symptoms similar to those associated with other New World arenaviruses, but genetically it is distinct from Junin, Machupo, Guanarito, and Sabia viruses.

Classical medical terminology can endanger patients

Classical medical terminology is confusing and has the potential to cause serious consequences for patients. The use of dead languages in medical terminology can lead to misunderstandings, especially in time-pressured situations with unfamiliarity or linguistic idiosyncrasies.

Inaugural Kirkham Gold Medal presented to expert on soil physics

Donald R. Nielsen, University of California-Davis professor, is recognized for his groundbreaking work in linking theory with field measurements and spatial variability of agricultural soils. He has guided 37 students through graduate degrees and authored over 300 scientific publications.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Mature B cells reprogrammed to stem-cell-like state

Researchers have successfully reprogrammed fully mature, differentiated B cells into an embryonic-stem-cell-like state without using eggs. This breakthrough enables the creation of powerful mouse models for autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis and type 1 diabetes.

Ovarian cancer stem cells identified, characterized

Researchers have identified and cloned ovarian cancer stem cells, which may be the source of recurrence and resistance to chemotherapy. These stem cells can replicate indefinitely and are highly resistant to conventional treatment.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Duke scientists deconstruct process of bacterial division

Researchers at Duke University have made a major advance in understanding how bacteria divide, paving the way for new antibiotic treatments. They created an artificial system that demonstrates the importance of FtsZ protein in bacterial cell division.

Researchers evaluating food allergy treatment

A new trial aims to develop a preventive treatment for food allergies using immunotherapy. Researchers will administer increasing doses of peanut or egg protein to desensitize participants' immune systems. The goal is to achieve long-term results and offer relief from the daily fear of food.

Tip sheet for International Seismology Research Conference

Researchers at the SSA meeting will discuss the Rio Grande Rift, a region prone to earthquakes, and its potential connection to ancient volcanic activity. The study also explores seismic hazard estimates for areas like New Madrid and Charleston, which may be underreported.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Dam removal increases property values

Two studies found that removing dams in Maine increased property values by reducing a penalty for being near the dam site. The penalty has shrunk since dam removal, and it now affects properties further away from the dam more than those closer to the dam.

Saliva can help diagnose heart attack, study shows

Researchers developed a nano-bio-chip device that analyzes saliva to detect proteins associated with heart attack, offering a non-invasive and rapid diagnostic tool. The test can identify current heart attacks and predict future risk, potentially saving lives and preventing damage from cardiac disease.

Aging: how growing older affects cancer risk and outcomes

Researchers found that lung cancer patients over 80 fare equally well after surgery as their younger counterparts, while elevated interleukin-12 levels are associated with poorer survival rates in melanoma patients. DNA methylation decreases with age, potentially contributing to cancer development.

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Biogas production is all in the mixing

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have determined the importance of mixing in anaerobic digesters, which can produce biogas with manure waste, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and groundwater contamination. The study suggests that increasing mixing intensity is crucial for successful operations.

Older people are nation's happiest

A recent study by the University of Chicago found that happiness in America increases with age, with older adults reporting higher levels of contentment. The research also discovered that baby boomers are less happy than other generations, while economic fluctuations can impact national happiness levels.

IOF calls for concerted support for second EU osteoporosis audit

The International Osteoporosis Foundation is urging EU countries to continue seeking government recognition and action to address the growing burden of osteoporosis. Despite progress in management, important care gaps remain, including limited access to bone mineral density machines and evidence-based treatments.

Study finds increased fragmentation of TV news audiences along party lines

Research shows that TV news audiences are increasingly divided by party affiliation, with significant consequences for democracy and political discourse. Individuals who don't identify strongly with either party are watching less news, while those who do are exposed to tailored content that reinforces their views.

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Hormone therapy: Does timing matter?

Researchers found that hormone therapy started around menopause onset may have similar benefits as those without risk factors for heart disease. The study suggests that current guidelines may need to be revised for younger women taking hormone therapy.

High cholesterol in your 40s increases risk of Alzheimer's disease

Research found people with high cholesterol levels between 249-500mg are 1.5 times more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease than those with low cholesterol levels under 198mg. High mid-life cholesterol also increased the risk of vascular dementia regardless of other factors.

Security from chaos

A new security system, ARMOR, uses randomization to analyze data on vehicle checkpoints and canine searches, providing a model for police operations. This system aims to enhance safety by minimizing the predictability of potential terrorist attacks.

World-first discovery could help treat life-threatening tumors

Western Australian researchers have made a world-first discovery that could help treat life-threatening tumours by reversing angiogenesis. The team found that the gene RGS5 can normalise blood vessels in tumours, allowing for improved immune cell entry and increased survival rates in laboratory tests.

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Is there anybody out there?

A mathematical model suggests that intelligent life emerging on other planets is low due to the short life span of Earth. The model, developed by Prof Andrew Watson, estimates the probability of each critical step occurring as 10% or less over four billion years.

Bloodless worm sheds light on human blood, iron deficiency

Using C. elegans, researchers identified previously unknown proteins key to transporting heme in human blood and discovered genes involved in heme transport, which could lead to new treatments for iron deficiency. The findings suggest that understanding heme absorption is crucial for effective iron delivery in humans.

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Methane sources over the last 30,000 years

Researchers identify tropical wetlands as primary methane emitters during glacial times, while forest fires remained constant. The study provides essential information on natural changes in atmospheric methane concentrations prior to human impact.

I'm listening -- conversations with computers

A computer system called SEMAINE is being developed to recognize human emotions through facial expressions, gaze, and voice, enabling it to adapt its performance and engage in conversation. This project aims to bridge the gap between humans and technology, paving the way for more natural interactions.

Unearthing clues of catastrophic earthquakes

Researchers are joining forces to study past earthquakes in the archaeological record, which can provide valuable insights into seismic hazard estimates. A new standardized method, known as the Archeological Quality Factor (AQF), is being proposed to document the certainty of ancient earthquake records.

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Disturbed regulation of insulin production

A recent meta-analysis of 15 studies involving over 70,000 participants identified six new genes linked to type 2 diabetes. The study, published in Nature Genetics, confirms that insulin-producing cells play a crucial role in the disease's development.

Chemical exposure may increase risk of ALS

Researchers found a significant link between ALS and formaldehyde exposure, with longer-term exposure increasing the risk. Formaldehyde is used in various household products and has not been previously linked to ALS.

UW to lead $6.25M project creating electronic Sherlock Holmes

The University of Washington is leading a $6.25M project to develop an electronic Sherlock Holmes system for complex data analysis in the military. The system will integrate various types of sensor data to predict behavior and make decisions, addressing the challenge of handling high degrees of complexity and uncertainty.

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Research collaboration seeks blood test for aggressive breast cancer

Researchers are developing a blood test to detect aggressive breast cancer using a comprehensive tissue collection and advanced proteomics technology. The project aims to identify proteins that indicate aggressive cancer and can be detected in blood, adding to the tools available to fight the disease.

IU Health & Wellness: New research findings from the Kinsey Institute

The study, which examined men's reports of sexual desire and arousal, found that factors like depression, relationships, and scent play a significant role in shaping their experiences. The Kinsey Institute's dual control model suggests that separate systems for excitation and inhibition exist within the central nervous system.

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Gene therapy reduces cocaine use in rats

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory found that increasing dopamine D2 receptor levels can reduce cocaine use in rats by 75 percent. The treatment, which involves injecting a harmless virus carrying the D2 receptor gene into the brain, has potential as an addiction therapy.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Wildlife Conservation Society releases definitive 'state of the wild'

The Wildlife Conservation Society's new book, State of the Wild, explores pressing conservation issues including wildlife disease, climate change, and conservation as diplomacy. The book features expert essays from top scientists and thought leaders, providing a comprehensive look at the current trends affecting wildlife worldwide.

Breaking personal health records

Researchers develop basic framework for PHR adoption, addressing concerns around privacy and security. A comprehensive PHR can help patients become their own health advocates, access healthcare workers' opinions, and make informed decisions.

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Variants of vitamin D receptor linked to increased risk of breast cancer

A study found that genetic variations in the vitamin D receptor gene are associated with an increased risk of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Vitamin D has been shown to play a role in preventing cancer, but its effects on specific genetic variants and breast cancer risk were unclear until this research.

The BBVA Foundation awards its 2007 Biomedicine Chairs

The BBVA Foundation has awarded six Biomedicine Chairs to leading researchers, facilitating knowledge transfer and strengthening ties between Spain and international teams. The chairs will focus on basic and clinical research, with a total funding of €1.2M.

Experiencing virtual products

Fraunhofer researchers develop a Functional DMU framework to simulate mechatronic products, enabling the evaluation of safety issues such as power windows. The virtual product can be tested with various software packages, including SimPack, Matlab/Simulink, and Dymola.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.